DRIVERS face an unprecedented police crackdown over the next four months as the full force of the law is rolled out across the state’s roads.
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The usual “revenue raising’’ cry from disgruntled motorists will be inevitable and predictable and although the state government stands to make money out of law-breaking drivers, this latest blitz is more about saving lives.
Despite all the safe-driving messages generated by the Transport Accident Commission, the state’s road toll is trending alarmingly upwards — 172 compared to 161 at the same time last year — so tough measures are required.
Mobile speed cameras, booze and drug buses and marked and unmarked police cars will unite to impose a vice-like grip on the state’s motorists as we head into party season in the lead-up to Christmas.
Victoria’s top traffic cop Assistant Commissioner Robert Hill is making no apologies for what he says will be a concerted effort by his officers to keep motorists safe.
Police are using the term “lockdown’’ to describe their new approach — saturation tactics in specific areas to ensure that no driver escapes the dragnet.
More funding has also been given the green light so that speed cameras can operate more fully between now and Christmas and the TAC is helping to pay police overtime with a $1 million donation to the cause.
The new, hardline approach has been sparked by the rise in the road toll, something that has shocked police and safety experts.
The lowest road toll figure since 1924 was recorded in 2013 when 242 people died on the state’s roads — 40 fewer than in 2012, but this year 12 more people than last year have died.
Increased drug use is playing a role with a recent police operation recording one out of every 15 drivers is affected by the drug ice.
Alcohol, speed and distraction continue to play a major role and elderly drivers involved in accidents are also pushing the numbers up.
It is a dangerous mix and a massive challenge for police so don’t expect any sympathy if you’re dumb enough to take a chance.